"For the world's 1.5 billion Muslims, Ramadan is a time for thoughtful reflection, fasting and devotion," Obama said in a statement issued on the eve of Ramadan.
"It is also an opportunity for family and friends to come together and celebrate the principles that bind people of different faiths - a commitment to peace, justice, equality and compassion towards our fellow human beings. These bonds are far stronger than the differences that too often drive us apart," he said.
The US stands with those who are working to build a world where all people can write their own future and practice their faith freely, without fear of violence, said Obama, as he along with the First Lady extend the best wishes to Muslim communities here in the United States and around the world.
"In the US, Ramadan is a reminder that millions of Muslim Americans enrich our nation each day-serving in our government, leading scientific breakthroughs, generating jobs and caring for our neighbors in need," he said.
"I have been honored to host an iftar dinner at the White House each of the past four years, and this year I look forward to welcoming Muslim Americans who are contributing to our country as entrepreneurs, activists and artists," he said.